Panasonic Lumix S5 II Review
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Our editorial take on the Panasonic Lumix S5 II
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II represents a pivotal moment for the Lumix line, finally silencing the long-standing criticism of its autofocus performance. By implementing a highly capable phase-detect hybrid AF system, Panasonic has transformed this camera into a truly competitive modern hybrid. The frustrating focus-hunting of past models is gone, replaced by a reliable system that confidently tracks subjects in both photo and video. This single upgrade elevates the S5 II from a specialized tool for patient shooters to a mainstream powerhouse ready to tackle nearly any creative task.
Beyond the game-changing autofocus, the S5 II builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. It remains a video creator's dream, offering a deep suite of features and superb image quality from its 24-megapixel full-frame sensor. The overall package delivers exceptional value for its price point. While the more specialized S5 IIX model exists for those needing advanced codecs and streaming functions, the standard S5 II solidly plants its flag as the best all-around option for the majority of hybrid shooters, providing professional-level results without a top-tier price tag.
- Vastly improved phase-detect hybrid autofocus
- Exceptional value for a full-frame camera
- Robust and deep suite of video features
- Excellent image quality for both photos and video
- Solid build quality and user-friendly ergonomics
- Highest-end video codecs are reserved for the more expensive S5 IIX model
- Autofocus, while a huge leap forward, is not always class-leading against top competition
Synthesized by Geared editors from early expert reviews.
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At CES 2023, Panasonic announced a pair of new full-frame S Series cameras, the S5 Mark II and the S5 Mark IIX. Panasonic has designed the cameras to be true hybrid cameras, delivering high-end still photography and video performance without compromising in either regard.
In a crowded market full of competition, the Lumix S5 is a mirrorless hybrid camera that offers a lot, and it should certainly make some waves. If you are a Panasonic user looking to upgrade from a GH5, or you are invested in the L mount, it certainly deserves to be put on your radar.
No Film School is a leading worldwide community of filmmakers, video producers, and independent creatives. It provides daily news, resources, and educational content, along with a forum for artists to share and improve their craft.
The S5 is notably smaller and lighter, though it comes with slightly less durability. Image quality is a near-perfect match between the S5 and S1 since they have the same 24MP full-frame sensor. With all things considered, the S5 is likely the best camera for most people.
Is the S9 a revolutionary camera design or just a different flavor of something we’ve seen before? The body is basically a scaled-up GM series camera — at least superficially — with a rather boxy design and flat grip.
Despite all those oddities, the S5II looks like an intriguing camera — especially that S5IIx because I’m a sucker for all things all-black.
Panasonic's S5 II is an awesome full-frame vlogging and video camera option, and its $2,000 is great value for video shooters.
This review covers the Panasonic Lumix DC-S5II, evaluating its performance and features.
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About this product
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is a mirrorless camera featuring a 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor. It supports 6K30p 4:2:0 10-Bit Video Recording and C4K/4K60p 4:2:2 10-Bit unlimited video. The camera also includes a 3.68m-Dot 0.78x-Magnification OLED LVF.
Specs
- Weather Sealing
- Yes
- Bit Depth
- 10-bit
- Log Profiles
- V-Log/V-Gamut
- Max Frame Rate 4k
- C4K/4K 60p
- Max Frame Rate Hd
- FHD 180p
- Max Recording Time
- Unlimited
- Max Video Resolution
- 6K (6000 x 3168)
- High Resolution Mode
- 96MP
- Sensor Size
- Full-Frame (35mm)
- Sensor Type
- CMOS Sensor
- Effective Megapixels
- 24.2 MP
- Launch Price Usd
- 1997.99
- Dual Native Iso
- Yes
- Viewfinder
- 3.68m-Dot 0.78x-Magnification OLED LVF
- Rear Screen
- 3" tilting touchscreen LCD
- Touchscreen
- Yes
- Wireless
- Wi-Fi
- Card Slots
- Double SD Slot
- Ibis
- 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 (6.5-stop shutter speed equivalent)
- Af Points
- 779 points
- Af System
- Phase Hybrid AF
- Subject Detection
- human, animal, cars, motorcycles
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